Katima mulilo: The Namport Zambezi Regional Second Division league, which faced delays due to regional budgetary constraints and infrastructure issues, officially commenced on Saturday afternoon.

According to Namibia Press Agency, the league was initially slated to begin in December 2025 but was postponed as the seasonal budget had not yet been approved. This information was provided by the Zambezi Regional Football Association chairperson, Ngwama Vuyalo, during an extraordinary meeting held a fortnight ago.

In response to the delayed start, the league has decided to use two venues for the current season: the University of Namibia (UNAM) Sports Field and the Katima Mulilo Sports Complex. These venues will also host First Division teams, Black Hawks FC from Katima Mulilo and Eastern Chiefs FC from Kavango East, for all Black Hawks' home games. This season, 12 clubs are competing in the division.

Vuyalo explained that the dual-venue strategy aims to address operational challenges such as completing the league within the stipulated timeframe, minimizing match postponements due to First Division fixtures, and ensuring an equal number of matches played by all teams after each round.

The opening games at the UNAM Sports Field saw Blue Chiefs defeat Space Age 5-1, Shooting Stars overpower Black Buffaloes 5-0, and Oryza Sativa triumph over Real Cheetahs 3-0. Meanwhile, at the Katima Mulilo Sports Complex, Bush Bucks edged out Zambezi Sporting Academy 2-1, Roccano King Rangers overcame Namib Chiefs 2-0, and Green Eagles secured a 3-1 victory against Bright Stars.

Vuyalo extended his gratitude to all clubs, officials, administrators, and stakeholders for their hard work in making the league's commencement possible. He urged everyone involved to adhere to regulations, maintain discipline, and promote fair play throughout the season. The league is scheduled to run until June 15, 2026.